Scientists discover key gene's role in colorectal cancer (Roundup)

Sep 9, 2008, 10:43 GMT

Singapore - Scientists have discovered a genetic clue that could prevent the growth and development of colorectal cancer, the team said Tuesday.

When the gene called RUNX3 is disrupted, colorectal cancer can occur, said the experts from the National University of Singapore and the Agency of Science, Technology and Research. RUNX3 suppresses abnormal cell growth.

'My team and I have been working on our research for the past six years, said Professor Yoshiaki Ito, an oncology professor at the university. 'For the first time, we found that inactivated RUNX3 occurs at the early stage of the cancer and is relatively easy to detect.'

'This is significant as it is possible to reactivate the gene to slow down the cancerous growth.'

'We are extremely excited about how our findings can be translated into practical clinical applications to help patients,' Ito said.

The latest findings move experts closer to identifying the right targets to develop therapeutic treatments.

'The outcome of the research also lays the groundwork for a diagnostic kit for early detection,' said Professor John Wong, dean at the medical school.

The study of the gene in colon cancer involved animal models and tissue samples from patients. The RUNX3 gene in all the human samples were switched off, Ito said.

Changes to the gene appear to involve its function and not its innate DNA sequence.

'This means its basic core remains intact, making it possible to be reactivated,' Ito said. 'We are now looking at how to do so and with which chemicals.'

Colorectal cancer in its early stages usually does not cause any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, the most common include blood in the stools, change in bowel habits and fatigue.